Is Matthew Stafford playing tonight vs. the Cardinals?

Matthew Stafford has been dealing with a toe injury this week. The Los Angeles signal-caller hurt it delivering a pass to Cooper Kupp during Sunday’s game against the 49ers. What is his status for fantasy football managers ahead of tonight’s game? Is Stafford playing tonight against the Arizona Cardinals in the Rams’ Wild Card Weekend matchup?

Is Matthew Stafford playing tonight vs. the Cardinals?

Stafford may have injured his toe last weekend, but he confirmed with reporters that it was not impacting him, and he will play tonight against Arizona. The Rams QB joked with the media, declining to show them his feet during the press conference. Aaron Rodgers did exactly that in a previous interview while describing the toe injury he was facing.

The news comes as a relief to Rams fans as they head into a rivalry clash in the Wild Card round against the Cardinals. LA goes into the game in fine form, winning five of their last six regular-season games. The only loss came in overtime last Sunday in Week 18 against the Niners.

Stafford’s season with the Rams in 2021

Stafford has relished an opportunity to play outside of Detroit and finds himself in the playoffs in his first season with the Rams. Sean McVay sought him out during the offseason, and the two have formed a strong relationship on the West Coast.

Stafford’s season with the Rams marks his third-highest passing total since turning pro, only beaten by his 2011 and 2012 campaigns in Detroit. Those were the days of prime Megatron, but Stafford is finding new receivers to connect with in LA.

Cooper Kupp managed the “triple crown” of receiving records, a title previously held by Steve Smith Sr. The title requires the receiver to lead the league in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdown catches. Kupp had 145 receptions for 1,947 yards and 16 touchdowns, leading in all three categories.

Stafford’s part in that record is certainly profound. Kupp’s 1,947 yards also very nearly broke the single-season receiving record, held by Calvin Johnson in 2012, catching passes from … Stafford. Is there something serious to be said for Stafford’s relationship with his receivers and his ability to allow them the space to play at their very best?

Stafford and fantasy football

Stafford ranked fifth amongst quarterbacks in fantasy football this season. The move to LA has significantly increased his value and return on investment. In his previous three seasons with the Lions, Stafford ranked 19th, 29th, and 15th in last year’s final standings.

Tonight, he’ll suit up against the Cardinals in the postseason, with an ambition to take his team to the Divisional Round. Weapons like Kupp, Odell Beckham Jr., and Van Jefferson — plus the return of Cam Akers — will give him a great chance of doing just that.